Proper oral hygiene is a huge part of orthodontic treatment. Keeping up with brushing and flossing, following the rules for what foods to eat, and regular dental check-ups all play a big role in a healthy smile when the braces come off. Wearing braces can make it more challenging to keep up with your regular oral hygiene habits, but taking the extra time to make sure those chompers are clean is the best way to avoid problems with decalcification, an issue that can go hand-in-hand with braces if the proper care isn’t taken.

Tooth decalcification is an early stage of tooth decay in which teeth lose calcium. Decalcification occurs from a build-up of plaque on the surface of teeth from poor oral hygiene, and unfortunately braces can sometimes lead to this issue since it’s difficult to clean the surface of teeth beneath brackets. Decalcification causes white spots to appear on the teeth from acidic bacteria that damages enamel and wears down calcium, and though it can typically be reversed, it can lead to irreversible damage if not properly cared for.

Braces don’t have to be a hassle, as your Jacksonville orthodontist, we’re here to help you keep your teeth healthy throughout your entire treatment. If you’re concerned about damage to your teeth, give us a call, we’d be happy to talk with you about how to properly care for your braces and how to keep up great oral hygiene habits.